I’ve been down this thought path. Self-silencing is actually the worst response because it stifles people while simultaneously making them resentful. Nobody wants either of those things. By thinking about all this, you’re way ahead of most people tackling these themes.

It turns out there are actually other solutions. For one, run your text by members of the affected culture. Get their feedback and insight. Worried about your portrayal of Native Americans? Seek out someone who is Native American and has knowledge of the period and get their feedback.